It is also a conjecture that skaters who can execute them in both directions are somehow "better" and "more valued" according to the COP.
No, it's explicit that the ability to turn in both directions is more valued.
"Multidirectional skating" is one of the criteria for the Skating Skills component.
One of the features for step sequences with which skaters can earn higher than base level is to turn in each direction for at least 1/3 of the pattern.
A different feature for step sequences is the variety/complexity feature, with different definitions for the minimum requirements for level 1, 2, 3, or 4. Only for the level 4 requirements, "complexity" of turns and steps, is rotation in both directions required.
There are 6 and only 6 possible different kinds of turns.
The way "variety" is defined for level 3, it's necessary to do either 5 or 6 different kinds, but they could all be in the same direction.
For "complexity" for level 4, it's necessary to do either 5 or 6 different kinds and each kind must be done in both directions. That's part of what makes "complexity" (as defined in the step sequence feature rules) harder to achieve than "variety."
However, does Adelina's SS deserve to be downgraded to Level 3 because she did this particular combination (6 types of turns)? I don't see the compelling case for it at all, especially when no one else seems to have noticed this grave "error". In fact, I believe she was rewarded for achieving greater variety/types of moves.
There's no way to interpret the rule as written to allow for 6 different kinds of turns being worth more than 5 different kinds in terms of the tech panel determining the level.
Either 5 or 6 can meet the requirement, but 5 must be performed in both directions.
If judges want to keep track of the number of kinds of turns and reward that the step sequence GOE or in the Skating Skills or Choreography components -- or Transitions for those turns that take place outside the step sequence -- they are free to do so. It's not an explicit criterion, so it probably wouldn't make a significant difference even for judges who do bother to keep track.